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Rice MBA Essays: Tips for 2024-2025

At Menlo Coaching, we noticed that most MBA essays will fall into one of a number of categories: personal essays, career goals essays, behavioral essays, etc. Read ahead for our expert guide on approaching these essays for Rice Jones School of Business. 

The Career Goals Essay

• In 100 words or less, please share your short-term career goals. (text box, 100 words)
• In 100 words or less, please share your long-term career goals. (text box, 100 words)

(These are not NOT meant to be traditional essays, rather, the purpose of this short answer response is to have a clear and direct understanding of your professional goals.)

The Personal Statement Essay

• Required Creative Essay: While we know a picture is worth 1000 words, in 500 words or less tell us the story of a photo of your choosing that has significant value in your life experiences. Please feel free to share your photo! You can complete this essay via a traditional written response (500-word limit) or via a video response (one to three-minute time limit).

The Optional Essay

• If you have any additional information for the admissions committee or if you wish to clarify any aspect of your application (including breaks in employment, your choice of recommendation providers, your past academic performance, etc.), you may submit an additional, optional essay.

Applying to Rice Jones

In this program, students are encouraged “to take risks and make mistakes.” They are looking for students who are moved to create. Through the story you relate in your essay, the admissions council is looking to see if you reflect the same values that the school does. Rice is looking for students who are looking to develop their emotional intelligence and eager to use rigorous analysis. The best way to represent that you possess those qualities is through the type of essay you choose to write. 

You’re not the only one hoping you’ll have a job after you’ve graduated with your MBA. Admissions committees are looking for students who are motivated and clear in their intentions so that when they get a job post-grad, they’ll be more willing to speak positively of their experience in the program. And, of course, in the hopes that their alumni will earn enough money to become a donor to the school one day.  

There are three aspects to the career goals essay: 

• What you want your future profession to look like.
• Why an MBA is necessary to advance your career.
• Particularly, why a degree from Rice Jones will be most beneficial to you and your job plan. 

Your aspirations need to be convincing, ambitious, and realistic. Rice Jones is looking for applicants who have meaningful goals grounded in their past experiences, and it’s important that you relate that notion in your essay, however it applies to your experience in life. 

Like we touched on earlier, schools are looking for the right fit for their campus community, just as you are searching for the school that aligns best with your goals. In the personal essay, this is your chance to show Rice Jones the values that drive you both as a person and as a student. These values tell the admissions council what you prioritize, the moral code you live by, and, most importantly, who you are as a person.

Rice Jones is looking for applicants who want to contribute to a larger purpose. The program is dedicated to students completing their own research and analysis in order to make decisions. They encourage intelligent risks. 

In these essays, you can talk about almost anything; typically, applicants will write about relationships in their lives, or times when there was a hardship they had to overcome. Be warned, though: there are some topics to avoid, and we have outlined a few things to watch out for  in this article . 

Optional Essay

In addition to these essay types, Columbia Business School also offers applicants the opportunity to write an optional essay to expand on gaps in your resume or other potential weaknesses in your record. Keep in mind that this essay is meant as an addition, so try to be concise.

Writing strong, coherent, genuine stories is an essential part of your MBA application. These essays are meant to help you stand out among many other applicants, so it is worth your time to do the work and write about situations unique to your life and that you truly learned from.

Facing challenges with Jones MBA admissions essays? Our team of consultants offers personalized support to help you craft standout essays that showcase your strengths. Elevate your application with guidance from our experienced MBA consultant team .

Related Articles

• Rice Jones MBA Program Overview
• MBA Essay Tips From 3 Top Admissions Consultants
• How to Get Into MBA Programs at Top Business Schools

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Jones: More Than Energy! Tips for the Rice MBA Essay Prompts

July 31, 2017

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Jones Graduate School of Business (of Rice University) is no longer just for those interested in oil & gas. Though still energy focused, key areas that Rice also focuses on include health care and entrepreneurship.

In fact, that entrepreneurial vibe is seen right from the get-go with the first essay question being a required video essay:

Everyone has a unique story and path that have led them to this point. What is your story from both a professional and personal standpoint? How does the Rice Business experience fit into your story? (3 minute limit)

We encourage you to be creative with your video! However, please note that the video essay must include you speaking on camera so that the admissions committee and can not only hear you, but can also see you share your story.

The Jones School of Business wants to get a holistic view of YOU – who you are, what drives you, what are your accomplishments?

Begin with what you are passionate about and then tie it to the narrative of your life including why you want to attend Jones and what you want to do after business school. They have asked for your story from BOTH a professional and personal standpoint. Make sure to include at least some details of your personal life, focusing on those that tie into your passion or have influenced you significantly to become who you are.

Don’t re-hash your resume! The admissions committee will view your video while looking at your resume so go beyond the statistics you have written there to touch on how you achieved your results, how you innovate and how you lead. If you do not have direct leadership experience, touch on how you manage peer or client relationships. Above all, be authentic.

Video tips:

• Three minutes is an eternity in video.

Be sure to practice, practice, practice. Your pace should be conversational – do not rush! The admissions committee views thousands of videos and encourage creativity but remember that the average Rice graduate is a focused, intelligent, and an incredibly hard-working professional. (Hint: wear a suit)

• Get ready to edit.

When you review your video make sure you also pay attention to everything in the frame that is not you. Your background, extraneous noises…do they add value to your video? Make sure you are well lit and your sound quality is clear throughout. What about your body language? Is it consistent with your words?

Next, a classic, written essay question where they ask you to select one of three questions:

1. Describe a defining moment or event that changed your life. (300 word limit) 2. What are the top 10 items on your bucket list? (One-page limit, bullet points allowed) 3. Tell us something, different, quirky, and/or interesting about yourself that the admissions committee wouldn’t glean from the rest of your application or interview. (250 word limit)

It does not matter which prompt you choose; however your response should have content that supplements the video essay so that you give adcom the broadest view of your candidacy. Choose the prompt that will best express who you are but pay attention to “action oriented, innovative, thoughtful leadership”

Also, a common theme of all these prompts is how you will contribute to the Rice community. Rice has roughly 110 students; a very small class size for a business school. You will truly get to know your classmates and your professors. As such, the above questions are to get to know you and how you will fit into the culture. Therefore, it is important that you get to know the Rice culture personally. Visit campus, attend a Rice event (including Webinars or mixers), talk to Rice grads; think about how you will fit in. What would you bring to your class that the other 109 people won’t? This is what Rice wants to know.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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Rice Business School MBA Essay Analysis 2023-2024: A Comprehensive Guide for Aspiring Leaders

Introduction to Rice Business School

Nestled within the esteemed Rice University in Houston, Texas, Rice Business School stands as an academic beacon renowned for nurturing visionary leaders in the world of business. Established with a commitment to excellence and forward-thinking approaches, the school has established itself as a prestigious institution in the realm of business education.

Rice Business School’s inception was rooted in the pursuit of shaping not just business professionals but visionary leaders equipped to navigate the complexities of today’s dynamic business landscapes. With a focus on innovation, leadership, and fostering an environment that encourages critical thinking and creativity, the school has emerged as a transformative force in business education.

Academic Programs Offered

The school offers a comprehensive range of academic programs tailored to meet the diverse needs of aspiring business leaders. From rigorous MBA programs to specialized master’s degrees, Rice Business School equips its students with the knowledge and skills required to thrive in today’s dynamic business landscape.

Faculty and Research

One of the school’s key strengths lies in its distinguished faculty members who bring a wealth of expertise and experience to the table. Their dedication to cutting-edge research initiatives further enhances the academic environment, fostering an atmosphere of innovation and intellectual curiosity.

Collaborations and Partnerships

The school’s strategic collaborations with industries and global partners play a pivotal role in enhancing the learning experience. These partnerships offer students invaluable opportunities for real-world exposure and practical insights into various business domains.

Alumni Network and Success Stories

The extensive alumni network of Rice Business School stands as a testament to the institution’s commitment to nurturing successful leaders. Graduates not only excel in their careers but also actively contribute to the school’s legacy, providing valuable networking opportunities for current students.  The average salary stands at 150,000USD for the class of 2023.

Unique Features and Distinctive Traits

Rice Business School distinguishes itself through innovative teaching methodologies that go beyond traditional paradigms. The emphasis on holistic leadership development sets its programs apart, producing graduates equipped to tackle multifaceted challenges.

Admissions Process and Requirements

Prospective students undergo a rigorous yet inclusive admissions process, ensuring that individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences contribute to the vibrant academic community. The school prioritizes merit, potential, and a passion for learning.

Requirements;

• Transcripts
• Standardised tests
• Application fee of 200USD

Lets dive into the MBA Essay Analysis for 2023-2024 at Rice School of Business;

Short answer 1.

In 100 words or less, please share your short-term career goals.

For the Rice Business School MBA application’s Short Answer 1 the prompt asks you to articulate your short-term career goals within a concise limit of 100 words or less. This prompt aims to gauge your clarity of purpose, your understanding of your career trajectory, and how obtaining an MBA from Rice Business School aligns with your immediate professional aspirations.

When responding, it’s crucial to be specific and focused.

• Clarity of Goals : Start by defining your short-term career objectives. Be specific about the position, industry, or role you aspire to post-MBA. Avoid generic statements and focus on a particular direction that aligns with your skills, experience, and passions.
• Relevance to Past Experience : Connect your goals with your past professional background or academic experience. Highlight how your previous endeavors have prepared you for these objectives. Discuss any skills, achievements, or experiences that directly relate to your short-term career goals.
• Alignment with Rice MBA Program : Explain how obtaining an MBA from Rice Business School is instrumental in achieving your short-term career objectives. Discuss specific resources, courses, faculty, or programs at Rice that resonate with your goals. Show how the school’s offerings uniquely align with and support your aspirations.
• Conciseness and Precision : Given the stringent word limit (100 words or less), precision is key. Craft your response with utmost clarity and avoid unnecessary filler words. Each word should contribute meaningfully to your statement. Consider using active voice and impactful language to convey your message efficiently.

Here’s an example (within the 100-word limit) that demonstrates these principles:

“My immediate career goal is to transition into ABC at a CDE firm, leveraging my finance background and project management expertise. With experience in financial analysis at XYZ Corp., I aim to apply data-driven insights to solve complex business challenges. Rice Business School’s robust consulting curriculum……….. The hands-on learning opportunities, mentorship, and collaborative environment at Rice will hone my skills and expand my network, propelling me towards achieving my short-term career goals.”

Short Answer 2

In 100 words or less, please share your long-term career goals.

Unique Approach Ideas:

• Narrative Approach:  Consider sharing a brief story or anecdote that led to your career aspirations. For instance, if a particular experience sparked your interest in a specific industry or role, briefly outline that experience and connect it to your long-term goals.
• Impact-Focused Response:  Highlight the impact you aspire to make in your chosen field. Discuss how your career goals are not just about personal success but also about contributing positively to society, industry, or a specific cause.
• Innovation and Future Vision:  Emphasize your vision for the future. Discuss how you see your industry evolving and how your career goals align with these anticipated changes. Show your forward-thinking mindset and adaptability to future trends.
• Global Perspective:  If relevant, mention how your career goals transcend geographical boundaries. Highlight your aspirations for a global career, working across diverse cultures and markets, and how this aligns with your personal and professional growth.
• Interdisciplinary Goals:  If your career goals span multiple industries or disciplines, emphasize the value of a versatile skill set. Discuss how you aim to bridge gaps between different sectors and leverage diverse knowledge to drive innovation.
• Leadership and Influence:  If leadership is a significant aspect of your career aspirations, express your ambition to lead by example. Discuss how you aim to inspire and empower others within your field or organization.
• Alignment with Rice Business School:  Articulate precisely how the resources, opportunities, or specific aspects of Rice Business School’s program align with and support your long-term career objectives. This could include unique programs, faculty expertise, or experiential learning opportunities.

Remember, regardless of the approach you choose, brevity is key. Focus on concisely conveying your long-term career vision, showcasing your passion, and demonstrating a clear connection between your goals and how an MBA from Rice Business School will help you achieve them.

Required Essay 1

While we know a picture is worth 1,000 words, in 500 words or less tell us the story of a photo of your choosing that has significant value in your life experiences. Please feel free to share your photo!

You can complete this essay via a traditional written response (500-word limit) or via a video response (one to three-minute time limit).

The essay prompt from Rice Business School MBA invites applicants to share the story behind a personally significant photograph within a word limit of 500 words. This exercise aims to provide admissions officers with deeper insights into an applicant’s life experiences, values, and perspectives.

Breaking down the prompt:

• Significance of a Photo : The focal point is the chosen photograph and its significance in your life. The photo serves as a catalyst to reveal a story or moment that holds immense personal value.
• Narrative Structure : The essay prompt encourages storytelling within a concise limit (500 words or a one to three-minute video). The story should revolve around the chosen photo, delving into its context, emotional resonance, and impact on your life.
• Self-Reflection and Connection : The applicant is prompted to reflect on the photo’s influence on their life experiences, personal growth, or values. The essay should demonstrate how the photo connects to the applicant’s aspirations, character, or worldview.
• Medium of Response : Applicants are given the choice to respond traditionally through a written essay or opt for a video format. Both mediums allow applicants to effectively communicate their story, but they should choose the format that best allows them to express themselves authentically.

Approach for a written response:

• Introduction : Introduce the photograph briefly and its initial significance. Set the tone for the story you’re about to narrate.
• Storytelling : Describe the photograph in detail, capturing the scene, emotions, and context surrounding it. Unveil the story behind the image, focusing on why it holds immense value in your life.
• Reflection and Connection : Reflect on the impact of this photo on your personal growth, values, or life choices. Draw connections between the photo and your aspirations, values, or the lessons you’ve learned from this experience.
• Conclusion : Summarize the significance of the photo in your life and reiterate its influence on your journey. End on a reflective note that ties the story together.

Approach for a video response:

• Visual Presentation : Display the chosen photo in the video and speak about it. Consider the visual elements, such as the photo’s composition, details, and what makes it emotionally resonant for you.
• Storytelling : Narrate the story behind the photo in a concise manner. Utilize the video format to portray emotions, gestures, or scenes that enhance the storytelling.
• Reflection and Connection : Connect the photo to your personal growth, values, or aspirations. Use the video format to express emotions and emphasize key points that link your story to the photo.
• Conclusion : Summarize the photo’s significance and the impact it has had on your life. End with a reflective message that encapsulates the essence of the story.

Remember, regardless of the format chosen, authenticity, clarity, and the ability to convey the significance of the photo within the word or time limit are crucial for this essay.

Optional Essay

If you have any additional information for the admissions committee or if you wish to clarify any aspect of your application (including breaks in employment, your choice of recommendation providers, your past academic performance, etc.), you may submit an additional, optional essay. (500 word limit)

The optional essay prompt for Rice Business School’s MBA application provides applicants with an opportunity to address any aspects of their application they feel require further explanation or elaboration. Here’s a breakdown and analysis of this prompt:

• Clarification: This essay gives you a chance to clarify any elements of your application that might raise questions or concerns for the admissions committee.
• Explanation: It allows you to explain any gaps in employment, academic discrepancies, or choices made in the application, such as the selection of recommenders.
• Open-ended: The prompt doesn’t limit the topics you can discuss. You’re free to address any relevant aspect not covered or not sufficiently explained in other parts of your application.
• Scope: It covers various aspects of your profile, including employment history, academic performance, choice of recommenders, or any other pertinent information.
• Conciseness: While you have a limit of 500 words, it’s crucial to be concise and focused in your writing.
• Prioritization: Use the word limit wisely to emphasize what matters most. Prioritize explanations or clarifications that could significantly impact the committee’s perception of your candidacy.
• Advantageous Opportunity: Utilize this essay strategically. It can strengthen your application by providing context, showcasing growth, or highlighting achievements not adequately addressed elsewhere.
• Demonstrating Self-Awareness: Use the essay to demonstrate self-awareness, growth, and the ability to learn from challenges or setbacks.
• Employment Gaps: If you have gaps in your resume due to personal reasons, career changes, or other valid circumstances, explain briefly how these gaps contributed to your personal or professional development.
• Academic Performance: If your academic record has irregularities or if there are specific courses or semesters that require clarification, provide context without making excuses.
• Choice of Recommenders: Explain why you chose particular recommenders and how they can provide insights into your abilities, character, or achievements.
• Professionalism: Maintain a professional tone and approach. Be honest, clear, and focused on providing necessary information.
• Positivity and Growth: Emphasize positive outcomes, learning experiences, or personal/professional growth resulting from challenges or setbacks.

In crafting your optional essay, consider it as an opportunity rather than an obligation. Focus on information that adds value to your application and gives the admissions committee a deeper understanding of your candidacy. Tailor your response to highlight your strengths, resilience, and suitability for Rice Business School’s MBA program.

Diversity and Inclusivity Initiatives

The school’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment is reflected in its initiatives aimed at embracing varied perspectives and creating a welcoming space for all.

In conclusion, Rice Business School remains steadfast in its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and community impact. Its legacy of producing well-rounded business leaders capable of thriving in diverse global settings stands testament to its success.

With a strong foundation built on cutting-edge education, a dynamic faculty, and an unwavering commitment to holistic development, Rice Business School continues to shape the future of business leadership. As it forges ahead, embracing challenges as opportunities and expanding its reach, the school remains dedicated to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and impactful environment.

FAQs about Rice Business School

• Q:  What makes Rice Business School stand out among other business schools? 

A:  Rice Business School’s emphasis on holistic leadership development and its innovative teaching methods set it apart, creating future-ready business leaders.

• Q:  How does the school support students in their career endeavors? 

A:  The dedicated career services team at Rice Business School assists students in exploring diverse career paths and connects them with potential employers, ensuring successful placements.

• Q:  Are there opportunities for community engagement at the school? 

A:  Yes, the school actively engages in impactful initiatives beyond academics, emphasizing social responsibility and community involvement.

• Q:  What kind of academic programs does Rice Business School offer? 

A:  The school offers MBA programs and specialized master’s degrees, catering to various interests and career aspirations.

• Q:  How does the admissions process work at Rice Business School? 

A:  The admissions process is inclusive, prioritizing merit, potential, and a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences.

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Bring Your Bold

At Rice Business, we’re a small school with big ideas. We seek bold thinkers who want to take risks and find groundbreaking solutions to today’s business challenges. If you’re ready to embrace your entrepreneurial spirit, boldly pursue innovation and create value for your organization, apply to join our tight-knit community today.

Start Dates

We offer class start dates four times per year: January, April, July and October . Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and we review all parts of each submission. This means that we evaluate your candidacy based on a variety of elements in addition to your test scores and work experience — including your essays, virtual interview, leadership roles, community involvement and career progression. View our complete list of application requirements.

Application Deadlines

The application fee for MBA@Rice is $150. Applicants who submit their application for the Early Priority Deadline will have their application fee waived. Applications who submit for the Priority Deadline will have their application fee reduced to $100.

Applications are now being accepted for the following start dates:

GMAT/GRE Policy

GMAT/GRE Waivers are available for qualified MBA@Rice candidates . Please see our Standardized Test Policy Page for more information.

International Applicant Information

If you are an international applicant who did not earn your degree from an institution where the primary language of instruction was English, you must submit a valid score report from one of the following:

• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) 
• International English Language Testing System (IELTS) 
• Pearson Test of English (PTE) 

Official scores are due by the first day of classes. View our application requirements for international students.

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2 Rice University Essay Examples

Rice University is a highly-selective college, so it’s important to write strong essays to help your application stand out. In this post, we’ll share essays real students have submitted to Rice University. (Names and identifying information have been changed, but all other details are preserved).

Please note: Looking at examples of real essays students have submitted to colleges can be very beneficial to get inspiration for your essays. You should never copy or plagiarize from these examples when writing your own essays. Colleges can tell when an essay isn’t genuine and will not view students favorably if they plagiarized. 

Read our Rice University essay breakdown to get a comprehensive overview of this year’s supplemental prompts.

Prompt: Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?

It’s family movie night, and we’ve chosen to watch Bird Brain , a nature documentary about birds and their unique abilities. I’m starting to lose interest, but the narrator says something wild that perplexes me: “Some birds have the ability to hold their breath for over 15 minutes underwater.” Well, now I have to know more. 

My mom groans as I pause the movie to spend the rest of my night understanding that one statement. I rush to my room and open my laptop, while my fingers type furiously as videos, images, and articles flood the screen. I click on the first site I see: “Emperor penguins dive to catch fish in the ocean, and their bodies begin to metabolize anaerobically after a certain point of being submerged.” But that wasn’t enough. I continue to scroll as my mind hunts for answers. How big are emperor penguins? How cold is the ocean in Antarctica? And what even is anaerobic metabolization? Ahhhhh! I feel like I am going to explode! I have to know more. 

This example of the emperor penguin is one of the many instances where I am motivated by the need to question what I hear. I encounter a similar situation on any given day. Whether it’s a quick Google search or an all nighter, I find myself lost in time as the world around me blurs while I unearth its secrets. This love of research stems from my childhood, as I was determined to find my own answers. From conducting at-home plant dissections to confirm what was taught in class, or reading an actual newspaper for the latest reports, nothing was true unless I had found evidence. Soon, this habit became deeply ingrained in my character. 

I call moments like these an “internet search spiral.” Part of the reason why these spirals are so captivating is because they can never be boring; it would take me 23.8 million years to go through the 295 exabytes of information on the web. Call me crazy, but I would do it. The never-ending knowledge found within the internet never fails to hold my attention, as my inquiries are like an emperor penguin plunging into the cold Antarctic waters for a swim. Knowing that there’s something I haven’t learned, a skill I haven’t mastered, or an equation I haven’t solved creates a warp in time that transports me to a region where seconds and minutes don’t restrain my knowledge.

 Internet search spirals capture every part of me but often leave me seeking additional material. The search for more information not available online connects me with like-minded thinkers, and this connection is what I aim to foster as a student at Rice. This quest for knowledge is more meaningful when I encounter someone whose passion for teaching matches my appreciation of learning. I turn to those who feel compelled to share. 

These internet search spirals ultimately transform me into a more mindful person. Every time I understand something new, I feel like a little penguin egg that’s ready to hatch and experience the world in a new way. The feeling of analyzing fresh material is one I will never give up. I don’t feel bound by the restriction of time because somehow my eyes never get tired of scanning endless papers and textbooks. After all, the knowledge I gain is worth it, because every bit of information gives me the chance to be a better individual. The purpose of knowledge is action, and knowledge that is acted on becomes greatness. I aspire to embody that greatness. Whether it’s from a website, a medical textbook, a documentary, or a good-old-fashioned human being, learning frees me from the constraints of time. 

So, thank you, emperor penguins, for sparking internet search spirals that push me to be a better individual.

What the Essay Did Well

This essay does a good job of using an anecdote at the beginning to hook the reader in and then continuing to weave callbacks to the anecdote throughout the essay. Including these callbacks where the student refers to themselves as “an emperor penguin plunging into the cold Antarctic waters” and “a little penguin egg that’s ready to hatch” help make the essay feel more cohesive. The use of the anecdote also allows the student to describe the thoughts that run through their brain while researching penguins, which not only shows how the student thinks, but creates the same feeling of excitement and anticipation the student felt in the moment for the reader. 

Another great thing this essay does is reflect on why this activity is so important to who the student is as a person. Although the prompt doesn’t specifically ask for anything more than why the topic is captivating and what do you turn to for more information, providing a reflection on how researching has positively impacted the student to become a better person proves to the admissions committee that this student knows who they are. The student took a passion they have and used it to show their growth as a person through engaging in this activity and how this activity will allow them to achieve their future goals. The last paragraph ties together the essay and takes it a step beyond what was required to elevate the essay.

What Could Be Improved

One thing this essay could work would be to tell less and show more. It’s cliche essay advice, but for a good reason. A lot of this essay tells the reader about the student’s researching habits without putting the reader in the chair next to the student while they sift through Internet tabs or flip through textbook pages. The anecdote at the beginning shows the excitement and thought process of the student when they are researching penguins which draws the reader in.

After the first paragraph the essay relies mostly on telling the reader what the student does and why they enjoy it, rather than using specific experiences and details to describe what was happening and how they felt. An easy way the student could improve their writing to show more would be to include more of their internal monologue while researching. 

It should also be noted that this was a Common App essay submitted to Rice that specifically mentioned Rice: “This connection is what I am to foster as a student at Rice.” Common App essays don’t need to be school specific, so including school names can actually be highly risky and costly if you make a mistake. This student could have easily submitted their Common App essay to Rice with another school’s name or with a blank they meant to fill in. The best way to avoid this mistake is simply to not included schools in your Common App, or if you really want to, make sure someone else proofreads your essay before you submit! 

Prompt: Rice is lauded for creating a collaborative atmosphere that enhances the quality of life for all members of our campus community. The Residential College System and undergraduate life are heavily influenced by the unique life experiences and cultural traditions each student brings. What life perspectives would you contribute to the Rice community?

One of the many Boarding School rules that I despised at the time but now look back at nostalgically was a 45-minute phone time. So with nothing else to do, our suitemates would gather together after “lights-out” and just talk. Sometimes it would be consoling a friend coming out of a bad break-up, and other times it’d be a serious debate on the merits of Latin honors. Whatever the topic, these conversations were always compassionate, spirited, and a source of familial support. 

This camaraderie also made studying with friends profoundly different. My Indian family was always relentless in reminding me to “Forget joy for four years” because delaying gratification was the only way to find “permanent security.” Apparently, in our divine meritocracy, College is just one step on the continual stairway of advancement. I couldn’t disagree more with this notion that an education is simply a means to an end.

But, as I studied with my best friends in our hostel, learning and fun were never antithetical ideas. Nights reserved for calculus were always accompanied by ping-pong sessions, but we never intended to sabotage each other in a futile race to the top. Ours was a collaborative family, where instead of selfish opportunity costs, we were driven by brotherly love. No accolade could beat this feeling of security and finding a home — away from home.

At Rice, to build that sense of family, I want to create a discussion group—Night Owls—to gather at night and ponder both the grandiose and whimsical philosophical questions over hot chocolate . Think of these events as a modern version of the infamous Greek Symposia, just without the booze. This combination of conversation, whimsy, and intellectual inquiry is what I want from college. It doesn’t sound very prudential, but it’s surely poetic.

The student who wrote this essay did a good job of tying their previous experience to an experience they want to bring to the Rice community. This student pinpointed exactly what they loved so much about living in a community with their peers and how they planned to recreate that experience in college. The descriptions about the types of debates or ping-pong tournaments the student engaged in create an image of an intellectual and supportive environment admissions officers want to see at their college.

Additionally, by coming up with a name and a plan for the discussion group, the student’s interest is evident and it shows that they took time to consider genuinely starting this group at college. In general, the student’s writing created a warm sense of family and bonding that displayed some of the student’s key values. This leaves the reader with a positive impression of the type of person this student is outside of the classroom, which was exactly what the prompt was looking to achieve.

This essay could benefit from a more focused and cohesive story. The way the essay begins describing late night discussions at boarding school, then transitions to a discussion on the student’s family, and then returns back to his school study group is a bit disjointed. The second paragraph adds very little to the essay as a whole and distracts from the sense of community the student was trying to establish in his study group. This student probably felt the need to discuss his family and his Indian heritage to address the “cultural traditions” the prompt mentions, however the experiences studying with his friend are unique and special enough to satisfy the prompt so this was an unnecessary addition. The essay could just describe the late night conversations he had at boarding school and how they created a sense of camaraderie and family among strangers that he wants to bring to college, without needing to bring up his family.

The words this student saves by removing the paragraph on their family could be used to create more concrete examples of the types of discussions the student had at boarding school or what they want to have at Rice. Although the essay mentions discussing bad break-ups or Latin honors, adding more detail like a quote said by one of the student’s friends or an introduced idea that made them reflect on the world would help put the reader in the room with the student or gain a better appreciation for the impact of the discussions. 

Where to Get Your Rice University  Essays Edited

Do you want feedback on your Rice University essays? After rereading your essays countless times, it can be difficult to evaluate your writing objectively. That’s why we created our free Peer Essay Review tool , where you can get a free review of your essay from another student. You can also improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays. 

If you want a college admissions expert to review your essay, advisors on CollegeVine have helped students refine their writing and submit successful applications to top schools. Find the right advisor for you to improve your chances of getting into your dream school!

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